What does a cyclone steam separator do with water and solids?

Prepare for the Omaha NAPE Engineer Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations provided. Get exam-ready with comprehensive study materials!

A cyclone steam separator serves to effectively separate water and solid particles from steam used in various processes. The primary function of this equipment is to ensure that only dry steam is delivered for use while removing any liquid water or solid contaminants that may be present.

When the separator operates, it uses centrifugal force to spin the steam and separate the heavier water and solid particles from the lighter steam. The separation process allows the water and solids, which are undesirable in steam systems, to be collected within the separator.

While draining them back to the boiler may seem plausible, it is important to recognize that in many systems, especially those designed for efficiency and corrosion prevention, discharging water and solids for waste management or further treatment is a safer practice to prevent boiler damage and maintain performance.

In most cyclone designs, the separated water and solids are typically directed to a discharge mechanism where they are safely eliminated from the system, underscoring the efficient operation of cyclone separators. Therefore, while the chosen answer regarding draining water back to the boiler may reflect a functional aspect, the primary goal of the cyclone steam separator aligns more significantly with removing and discharging them as waste or for further treatment.

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